‘But I’m still surprised that you did all this. Especially buying me formatting software. I haven’t even finished one book yet, and when I do, it could be shit.’
‘It won’t be.’
‘How do you know?’ I asked.
‘Because I believe in you, Sarah. I know that when you finish, it’ll be brilliant. And I’d love to read it when you do. No pressure, though. Whenever you’re ready to share it of course. Or maybe you’d prefer I didn’t? Whatever works best for you.’
I blinked away the tears that were forming in my eyes.
Ben believed in me.
Ever since I’d arrived in Sunshine Bay I’d been surrounded by so much love and support for my writing.
Jess had always encouraged me. Jackson and Jane cared enough to buy me a book to help with my writing.
Now Ben had spent what must equate to thousands of pounds buying me stuff to help make my writing easier and more comfortable.
And he’d said he thought I’d do well. Without even reading a single page of what I’d written.
The cherry on top was him offering to read my work when I was ready.
I was dumbfounded.
‘That’s… I’m… thank you. It really means a lot that you believe in me. Especially given the love-hate relationship you have with romance novels.’ I smiled.
‘I’m a romance fan now, remember? And something tells me that your book will become my new favourite.’ Ben wiped away the tears that had rolled down my cheek. ‘I was hoping this would be agoodsurprise. I didn’t mean to make you cry.’
‘They’re happy tears! All my life I’ve always felt like I wasn’t good enough or wouldn’t go far. So I’m just feeling a bit emotional that someone believes that I can make something of myself.’
‘You’ve already made something of yourself.’ Ben smiled. ‘What you’ve done for the library is amazing. And this is onlythe beginning. Trust me. Keep going and you’ll be even more successful. I just know it.’
‘Thanks. I’ll be sure to give you a shout-out in my acknowledgements!’
‘That’s very kind, but not necessary. If you want to thank me, just do your best and keep going.’
‘I will.’ I nodded.
63
SARAH
Knowing how well the retreat had turned out, I shouldn’t have really been surprised at how fantastic the book bar looked when I stepped inside, but somehow, my jaw was still hanging on the floor.
This was everything I’d hoped it would be and more.
There was a circular bar in the centre of the space and the glass bar top wasn’t just your bog standard one. It was like a display case with an assortment of romance books housed inside which we could apparently change according to what we wanted to promote.
Bookish quotes were printed on the back of the bar stools.
On the terrace, which had been custom built, there were several sun loungers giving stunning panoramic sea and beach views. The loungers even had tables that could be pulled in front of you with book and Kindle stands to make it easier to read.
And the daybeds looked so comfy. Especially with the assortment of glittery pink cushions scattered all over them.
There was even a dedicated viewing point with extra-high stools for those who wanted to enjoy the striking scenery.
The official opening was in just a few hours and I already knew that our members would love it.
Like Ben had originally suggested, Theo and Jess decided to charge for access. Members could buy an afternoon or evening pass which included two alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks. That way the library earned a minimum amount from each guest and someone couldn’t stay the whole day and just order tap water.
